David Robertson Retires from Professional Baseball
David Robertson has officially announced his retirement from professional baseball, concluding a remarkable 19-season career. The veteran reliever shared his farewell message on social media, expressing gratitude for the experiences and memories baseball has provided him.
David Robertson’s Career Highlights
Robertson’s career has been defined by significant accomplishments, evolving over two decades since his debut in Major League Baseball. Here are key highlights:
- First MLB Appearance: 2008 with the New York Yankees.
- World Series Champion: Part of the Yankees’ championship team in 2009.
- All-Star Selection: Earned his only All-Star nod in 2011.
- Historic Strikeouts: Collected nearly 1,200 strikeouts throughout his career.
- Postseason Performance: Accumulated 47.2 innings in the playoffs with a 3.47 ERA.
Early Career with the Yankees
Robertson was drafted in the 2006 MLB Draft by the Yankees as a 17th-round pick. He quickly established himself in the major leagues, posting a 3.30 ERA across 45 games in his first full season. His contribution was vital as the Yankees clinched the World Series that year.
Subsequent Seasons and Achievements
Over his career, Robertson cemented his reputation as a reliable reliever. He achieved:
- Ten consecutive seasons with an ERA under 4.00 from 2009 to 2018.
- A career-best 1.08 ERA in 2011, along with 34 holds.
- A dominant stretch in which he served as a setup man before taking over as closer.
Trades and Free Agency
Robertson’s journey included a significant trade back to the Yankees in 2017 after a tenure with the Chicago White Sox. He later signed with the Philadelphia Phillies but faced challenges, including a severe elbow injury requiring Tommy John surgery, which sidelined him for most of the 2020 season.
Final Seasons and Retirement
Robertson made a notable comeback after surgery, contributing to several contending teams. He recorded significant stats in his final season in 2023:
- Innings Pitched: 72 innings with a 3.00 ERA.
- Strikeouts: 99 for Texas in what became his last full season.
He played the 2023 season with the New York Mets and Miami Marlins before concluding his career with the Phillies.
Looking Forward
As Robertson transitions away from baseball, he expressed excitement about returning to his family and focusing on charitable efforts through his foundation, High Socks for Hope. His legacy in baseball, while perhaps not Hall of Fame caliber, is rooted in his reliability and consistency. He is likely to appear on Hall of Fame ballots in the future for his remarkable service to the game.
David Robertson leaves behind a career filled with achievements, camaraderie, and a lasting impact on the sport. His dedication has resonated with teammates and fans alike, ensuring that he will be remembered for years to come.
